Zohran Mamdani: NYC's Rising Progressive Voice

Zohran Mamdani, once known as the rapper “Young Cardamom,” is now one of New York City’s most dynamic progressive leaders. Born in Uganda and raised in Queens, Mamdani brings a global perspective to local politics, championing fare-free transit, housing justice, and economic equity. As a Democratic Socialist and a powerful community advocate, his journey from music to policy highlights a commitment to making NYC affordable and fair for all.

1- Globally rooted upbringing

• Born in Kampala, Uganda (1991), spent early childhood there and later in Cape Town, South Africa, before moving to NYC at age 7.

• Graduated from the Bronx High School of Science and holds a BA in Africana Studies from Bowdoin College.

2- Former rapper with a political beat

• Performed under the moniker Young Cardamom (“Mr Cardamom”), collaborating on the EP Sidda Mukyaalo and tracks like “Nani”.

• Blended social commentary and South Asian cultural identity in his music, which later fueled his transition into politics.

3- Political lineage & family

• Son of celebrated filmmaker Mira Nair and historian Mahmood Mamdani, giving him exposure to the arts, academia, and global affairs.

4- From counselor to legislator

• Worked as a housing and foreclosure prevention counselor in Queens, which shaped his commitment to affordability and tenant rights.

• Elected to the New York State Assembly in 2020, representing Queens’ 36th district—including Astoria and Long Island City—with re‑elections in 2022 and 2024.

5- Democratic Socialist & changemaker

• A prominent member of the Democratic Socialists of America, endorsed by figures like Bernie Sanders and AOC.

• Championed fare‑free bus pilots, blocked a fossil fuel peaker plant in Astoria, and helped secure $100M+ in state funding for public transit.

6- Historic mayoral bid

• Running for NYC Mayor in 2025, advocating bold economic justice policies: free buses & childcare, rent freezes, city‑run grocery stores, and a $30/hr minimum wage by 2030.

• Would be the city’s first Muslim and Indian‑American mayor if elected.

7- Global and local fluency

• Fluent or conversant in Urdu/Hindi, Bengali, Spanish, and uses multilingual messaging in campaign materials.

• Co‑founded Bowdoin’s Students for Justice in Palestine, reflecting long‑held activism on global human rights.

8- Personal life & interests

• Became a U.S. citizen in 2018; practices as a Twelver Shia Muslim.

• Married Syrian-American artist Rama Duwaji, whom he met on Hinge, and they live in Astoria.

• Avid fan of Arsenal FC, the NY Mets, and the NY Giants 

9- Digital-native campaigning

• Advocates a digital-first campaign strategy: viral memes, multilingual explainers, grassroots storytelling—often using creative tools like halal cart visuals and lassi cups—to explain policy.

Zohran Mamdani blends global heritage, grassroots engagement, creative flair, and progressive policy into a candidate reshaping NYC politics.